AdvantEdge Workspaces Blog

As the holidays get closer, people become more checked out at work. While the season is full of fun, it’s still important to end the year on a strong note at work. Finding this often elusive balance of work and play at the office will make for a happy environment as the year comes to a close. To finish out the year and eliminate stress during days off, we've rounded up four tips that will help everyone stay engaged at the office throughout the next few weeks.

1. Communicate End of Year Deliverables/Wrap-Up

For many professions, December is full of important deadlines and tasks to finish before the year ends. The best way to ensure everyone hits their goals is to over-communicate. Use meetings or an email chain to make sure everyone is on the same page. You can also enlist online services like Trello to create task cards were deadlines and projects can live in one place.

"Prioritize" should be the keyword of the month. This month, it needs to be crystal clear what needs to happen before people vacation time and what can be pushed to 2020.

2. Spread Holiday Cheer

This year AdvantEdge is collecting toys for children in need

Balance the stress of end of year deliverables with fun holiday activities. Most companies do a holiday party, but look for smaller ways to make the season special. Sponsor a family in need and buy them gifts together, set up a hot cocoa bar, organize a white elephant exchange, or have any ugly sweater day. Keep employees engaged by giving them things to look forward to- the possibilities are endless (and can even be free)!

3. Offer Flexibility

This year, give the gift of flexibility. Offering the option of work from home, flex hours, or different schedules will not only prevent logistical headaches but will keep morale high. People want to be with their loved ones, and the season is already busy enough with kid’s performances, gatherings and more. Instituting a special seasonal time off policy benefits everyone in the end. Managers don’t have to field as many requests, and employees will be happy and appreciative.

4. Look Towards 2020

December is the perfect time to collect feedback on how your company has run in the past year. Poll employees on workplace culture, management, benefits, and your workspace. Also, be sure to conduct end of year reviews. These meetings are a crucial time to check-in and set goals and expectations between managers and employees.

If it seems like people are would like something specific to change, take the time during the holidays to start exploring solutions. Perhaps you need a simple fix such as creating an anonymous feedback form, or maybe the issue is larger, such as everyone craving a new space for work.

The new year marks a great time to make a workspace switch. At AdvantEdge Workspaces, it’s our job to help keep you and your employees engaged at work during the holiday season and beyond. With community events ranging from toy drives to professional development to themed happy hours, there is always something new to get excited about. Schedule your tour before the holidays today!